Why did Imo Governor Hope Uzodinma visit Abia Governor Alex Otti? The visit reveals deeper plans for South-East unity and development. Read full story.
In a move that has stirred political interest across the South-East, Imo State Governor and Chairman of the South-East Governors’ Forum, Senator Hope Uzodinma, on Thursday paid a New Year courtesy visit to Abia State Governor, Dr Alex Otti, a development that has reignited conversations around regional collaboration, unity, and governance beyond party lines.
Speaking to journalists after the closed-door meeting, Governor Uzodinma dismissed speculations of political scheming, insisting that the visit was not politically motivated, but rather a deliberate effort to strengthen cooperation among South-East governors as they chart a collective path for regional development.
According to Uzodinma, the visit was primarily to wish Governor Otti a happy New Year, pray together, and encourage one another in the task of governance.
“So, my visit is a courtesy call to the Governor, who I have also seen is doing very well. I wished him a happy New Year and prayed with him so that the Almighty God will give us enough strength to continue to serve our people better and better,” Uzodinma stated.
Beyond the pleasantries, the Imo governor used the opportunity to underscore a renewed determination by South-East governors to jointly pursue development, stressing that collaboration remains the only viable pathway for regional progress.
Uzodinma revealed that the five governors of the South-East have resolved to work together deliberately, share ideas, and align strategies that would directly improve the welfare of their people.
“We in the South-East are determined to develop the region. And the only way we can do this is through collaboration.
As Chairman of the South-East Governors’ Forum, I have a responsibility to touch base with them, discuss, share ideas, and agree on how best to help our people survive,” he said.
He further assured that the governors are committed to ensuring that the South-East remains fully integrated and relevant within the Nigerian federation, countering narratives of marginalisation through practical governance.
Governor Uzodinma, who also serves as Chairman of the Progressive Governors’ Forum and Coordinator of the Renewed Hope Ambassadors in the South-East, openly commended Governor Otti for what he described as visible and commendable governance delivery in Abia State.
Political observers say the commendation is significant, coming from a governor of a different political party, reinforcing the message that performance, not party affiliation, is becoming the rallying point among South-East leaders.
Responding, Governor Alex Otti thanked his guest for the visit and echoed the position that the meeting should not be misinterpreted as political realignment.
Otti argued that belonging to different political parties does not translate to opposition against governance, noting that Nigeria operates as one system of government.
“You can disagree, and there are fora for disagreement. But once a decision has been taken, you are part and parcel of that decision,” Otti stated.
He reaffirmed that Abia State remains an integral part of the Federal Government and described Uzodinma’s visit as a gesture of unity and goodwill, not political bargaining.
Governor Uzodinma was accompanied by former Imo State Governor, Chief Ikedi Ohakim, and other dignitaries. On the Abia side, the Chief of Staff to the Governor, Pastor Caleb Ajagba, alongside top cabinet members, were present—an indication of the strategic weight attached to the visit.
Political analysts say the meeting signals a subtle but growing shift toward issue-based cooperation among South-East governors, especially at a time when the region faces economic pressures, security challenges, and demands for stronger regional coordination.
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